You have several options for getting around the island upon arrival, but which one is the most suitable for you? Today, we will talk about car hire in Lanzarote. We’ll explain what you need to know and when it may be more convenient to book a transfer.
Hiring a car allows you to explore the island at your own pace and reach every corner of it. What do you need to know before getting behind the wheel in Lanzarote?
How much does car hire in Lanzarote cost?
The season, the type of vehicle, and how far in advance you book are the main factors affecting the cost of car hire in Lanzarote. If you hire a car during the low season, you will pay less than during the summer or Christmas period.
But how much does it cost to hire a car in Lanzarote? If you book several weeks in advance, it is possible to find budget rates starting from €15–20 per day for a small car. Weekly rates typically range between €80 and €140.
If you wait until just before your trip to make a reservation, budget vehicles are unlikely to be available. As a result, you will have to pay more. During the high season, prices can even double or triple.
Where to hire a car (airport vs resort)
As an island that relies heavily on tourism, there are car hire options available in various locations. The best choice will depend on your convenience and budget.
The most popular option is to hire a car at Lanzarote Airport. Most car hire companies have offices there, meaning you can collect your vehicle as soon as you land and return it just before your departure flight.
Some travellers choose to collect a vehicle in the main tourist resorts. This is usually the case when they only need a car for a few days, rather than for the entire holiday. You will find offices of the main rental companies in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, and Costa Teguise. The drawback is that rental prices are generally higher than at the airport.
Driving in Lanzarote: what to know
Driving in Lanzarote can be a pleasant experience. The roads are well maintained, safe, and connect all the main towns and resorts. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind before driving around the island.
Roads and parking
The roads in Lanzarote are paved and generally in excellent condition. They are also well signposted, making it easy to travel around the island.
Traffic levels are relatively low, although they increase during peak hours, particularly in and around Arrecife.
The main roads have one or two lanes in each direction, while secondary roads leading to smaller villages and attractions may be narrower and more winding.
Parking is free in most towns and tourist attractions. However, in areas such as Arrecife, Playa Blanca, and Puerto del Carmen, finding a parking space can be more challenging. Public car parks are available, although some may charge a fee.
Insurance and excess
Most basic rentals include third-party insurance with an excess. It’s important to check the coverage and excess before renting.
Additional cover can usually be purchased to reduce or eliminate the excess altogether. In this case, the rental price will be higher, but you will not have to pay anything in the event of damage to the vehicle.
Bear in mind that car hire companies generally require a credit card for the security deposit.
Petrol stations
If you plan to hire a car, fuel costs should be included in your budget, as they will increase the overall cost of your trip. Petrol stations are easy to find in urban areas and along major roads. In more rural parts of the island, however, opening hours may be more limited. It is therefore advisable to plan where you will refuel during your excursions.
When hiring a vehicle, check the fuel policy of the rental company. In most cases, you will be required to return the car with a full tank.
Pros and cons of hiring a car
Hiring a car has both advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered before deciding whether it is the right option for your trip.
The advantages of hiring a car include:
- Freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You can follow your own itinerary and stop wherever you like.
- Access to remote areas. Many of the island’s natural attractions are difficult to reach by public transport.
- Time savings, as you avoid waiting for buses or taxis.
- Flexible schedules, allowing you to travel whenever you wish and spend as much time as you like at each destination.
- Better value than relying on taxis, particularly for frequent journeys around the island.
The disadvantages of hiring a car include:
- Additional costs, such as fuel and parking charges.
- A security deposit, which usually requires a credit card.
- Parking can be difficult in the busiest areas.
- Navigation challenges, as there is always the possibility of getting lost if you are unfamiliar with the area.
- Responsibility for the vehicle throughout the rental period.
When a private transfer is the better choice
Although hiring a car provides freedom to move around the island, there are situations in which a private transfer is the better option. For example, if your flight arrives late at night or departs very early in the morning, a transfer service can save you the stress of collecting and returning a hire car, making your journey more relaxing.
For short stays, or if you plan to remain in a specific area without exploring the island extensively, a transfer is often the most practical choice. In addition, if it is your first time visiting Lanzarote, having a driver take you to your destination can be particularly convenient.
Likewise, if you are staying in an all-inclusive resort and only require transport between the airport and your accommodation, booking Lanzarote airport transfers is likely to be the most suitable option.
Transfers can also provide greater comfort for travellers with reduced mobility or special requirements.
Car hire vs airport transfer: cost comparison
| Aspect | Car Hire | Airport Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Complete mobility throughout your stay. | Transport between the airport and your accommodation. |
| Initial Cost | From €15–20 per day in the low season when booked in advance. Approximately €80–140 per week. | Fixed price per journey or booked service. No need to hire a vehicle for several days. |
| Additional Costs | Fuel, possible parking fees, extra insurance cover, and a credit card deposit. | Generally, there are no additional costs once the service has been booked. |
| Flexibility | Very high. Allows you to create your own itinerary and change plans whenever you wish. | Limited to the pre-booked journey. |
| Convenience on Arrival | Requires collecting the vehicle, checking the paperwork, and driving yourself. | A driver meets you and takes you directly to your destination. |
| Driving Experience | Visitors must drive, navigate the roads, and take responsibility for the vehicle. | No need to drive or worry about routes and traffic. |
| Requirements | Driving licence, credit card for the deposit, and compliance with the rental conditions. | No additional documentation is required beyond the booking confirmation. |
| Ideal For | Travellers who want to explore the island, visit multiple attractions, and enjoy complete independence. | Travellers on short stays, those staying in a resort, arriving late at night, or seeking maximum comfort and convenience. |
This information will help you decide whether car hire in Lanzarote or an airport transfer is the better option for your trip. Consider the advantages of each alternative, and choose the one that best suits your travel style.
Source:
- https://www.lanzarote-airport.net/es/alquiler-coches-aeropuerto-lanzarote.php#/searchcars
- https://lanzaroteinformation.co.uk/hire-car-lanzarote-days/
Specialist in the tourism sector of the Canary Islands with a proven track record in experience management in Lanzarote. My work has always focused on promoting iconic destinations and optimizing transfer and excursion services on the volcanic island.
